Newly built home. Mold in crawl space (Hayden, Atomic City: sale, house)

[PacBali]

Moving to NID, Hayden area, and inspection found sporadic mold in the crawl space in a new constructed house. Is this a concern? Everyone I have spoken to seems to believe this isn’t a huge deal-breaker. Space is vented. I’m thinking because builders are building year round now, moisture is prevalent in these homes that are constructed in winter/spring. Mold remediation place told me they can take care of it with no problem. I’m concerned the mold spores have traveled via hvac/ducts into other parts of the house. Do I pass or let the pros do their work? Thoughts on a conditioned crawl space. Thanks for any insight.

[AnythingOutdoors]

I would not worry about mold in the HVAC system unless you have reason to believe the ducting isn't properly installed/sealed (in which case, you have bigger issues to worry about on your new build).

Instead, I would focus on finding the root cause of the moisture and make sure this is resolved. You don't want ongoing moisture problems under the house. If you think it's just due to winter/spring build, then I wouldn't be too concerned about it, would just keep an eye on it make sure it drys out. And be prepared to have a vapor barrier installed if necessary.

[PacBali]

Thank you. Just spoke to inspection company and they see this a lot, apparently. Building in winter and then closing it up while they continue construction. Remedy is relatively easy according to him.

[volosong]

If the house is less than a year old, there may be a warranty. Contact the builder.

[ejisme]

It should have a vapor barrier installed regardless. Radon is an issue in most all of Idaho, so the barrier is at least some help.

https://idaho.maps.arcgis.com/apps/w...6c5f357f52c63b

[PacBali]

Haven’t completed purchase of house. Builder said they’d fix problems inspection found. Just taken aback that they allowed moisture to stay in the crawl space and not take precautions. Mold remediation company said they would remedy the mold and certify. Also, getting an air test when completed. I’d have to disclose mold on any future sale so hopefully won’t affect the ability or price to sell. Not that I’m looking to move again, but want to think through buying this house. Another house I almost purchased: front door not plumb and front porch columns not square. Builder balked at repairing correctly so I walked. Unbelievable what’s out there.

[WalkintheLight]

Originally Posted by PacBali

Moving to NID, Hayden area, and inspection found sporadic mold in the crawl space in a new constructed house. Is this a concern? Everyone I have spoken to seems to believe this isn’t a huge deal-breaker. Space is vented. I’m thinking because builders are building year round now, moisture is prevalent in these homes that are constructed in winter/spring. Mold remediation place told me they can take care of it with no problem. I’m concerned the mold spores have traveled via hvac/ducts into other parts of the house. Do I pass or let the pros do their work? Thoughts on a conditioned crawl space. Thanks for any insight.

Are you kiidng me, get out. The crawl space is huge, that is the air that circulates into the house. I would get out before you get sick.

[nowhereman427]

Doesn't sound good especially if you have a reaction to the presence of mold as it will only get worse and worse.

[nowhereman427]

Originally Posted by ejisme

It should have a vapor barrier installed regardless. Radon is an issue in most all of Idaho, so the barrier is at least some help.

https://idaho.maps.arcgis.com/apps/w...6c5f357f52c63b

Is the Radon real high in Atomic City?
Are Radon levels an issue as Radon is present in just about all homes.

[Mister Torgue]

Originally Posted by volosong

If the house is less than a year old, there may be a warranty. Contact the builder.

^ This. It's highly important to really scrutinize the house during the first year for this reason.